NIWA Begins Clearance Of Water Hyacinth On Lagos Waters

In an effort to prevent water hyacinth from disrupting boat transportation and other waterway activities in the littoral communities, the Lagos Area Office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), on Friday, deployed task force to map out strategies to tackle buildup of water hyacinth around the Ikorodu axis.

LEADERSHIP reports that the NIWA team was supported by heavy-duty equipment including swamp devils, harvesters, and other relevant machinery.

According to the press statement by the authority and a copy made available to LEADERSHIP, the authority has commenced preliminary clearing operations around Ebute Ikorodu and Ikpakodo ferry terminal.
The statement said the exercise is intended to ensure that the waterways remain navigable and free from obstructions caused by the invasive aquatic weed.

Lagos area manager of NIWA, Engr. Sarat Braimah, explained that the deployment of the task force is a preventive measure designed to guarantee the smooth movement of goods and passengers through the Ikorodu waterways — a zone that often experiences recurring infestations of water hyacinth.

“We have carefully studied the pattern and spread of the water hyacinth phenomenon and have chosen to act swiftly to mitigate its impact before it causes disruption to boat and ferry operations,” Engr. Braimah stated.

“Beyond transportation, we are also mindful of the effects on local fishing activities. The earlier we address the problem, the better. My boss, the managing director of Niwa, Bola Oyebamiji, has awarded the contract to tackle the menace of water hyacinth across the country to ensure smooth passage of movement of goods and passengers.

“I will personally be on the ground throughout the week to monitor the progress of the operation, by the contractors,” she added.